Are you feeling like you’re stuck in a rut with your job search? Spending almost all of your time in front of the computer filling out millions of applications only to have no one actually ever contact you for a job? You may want to rethink your approach and start working smarter. Here’s 5 ways you can improve your job search and break that vicious cycle.

Use Your Time Efficiently and Effectively

When you’re unemployed, the job search can last anywhere from weeks to several months and can become extremely tedious and frustrating over time. The one thing you don’t want to do is apply to just anything because you need a job right now. You want to use your time efficiently and apply to jobs that match your qualifications and skills sets. A lot of the time, job seekers end up applying to jobs they don’t even want to work. Avoid getting stuck at a dead end job or even worse, a job you’ll end up hating and stick to applying to jobs that fit your experience and your interests.

Set Realistic Expectations

Having realistic expectations is vital when it comes to the job search. If you don’t have a lot of experience in your field, search for jobs that will give you the experience you need to broaden and strengthen both your skill set and experience. The more experience you gain, the higher your chances of getting hired in your preferred career field.

Get Connected on LinkedIn

If you’re looking for a way to connect to employers and your industry of interest, get connected on LinkedIn. LinkedIn is the most resourceful career networking platform that allows you to connect and build beneficial relationships with employers, recruiters, industry experts and influential people. This is a great way to enhance your job search and lead employers to you.

Perfect Your Resume

The most important factor in making sure that you land the right job is making sure that your resume is flawless. Make sure that your resume is up to date and highlights your skills and experience. You may want to have someone else take a look at your resume for errors and/or improvements you can make that will help your resume stand out. Be open to their suggestions and make the necessary edits to attract the attention of employers.

Build Yourself as a Brand

With social media increasing in its popularity, you want to make sure that you are marketing yourself to potential employers as a professional. Use what makes you unique as your way of setting yourself apart. Social media is a great platform to advertise your expertise in a specific field and helps you connect with individuals within the industry. View yourself as your own business and present yourself in a way that people will want to invest their time and energy in you.